Victoria Derbyshire says 'Newsnight' is 'one of the best jobs in British journalism'

Victoria Derbyshire has said she "can't wait" to start her new role at Newsnight as it's "one of the best jobs in British journalism".

The broadcaster is to become joint lead presenter on the BBC show, alongside Kirsty Wark.

The 53-year-old told fans on Twitter that she was thrilled about the job.

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"SO HAPPY I’ll be joining fab @KirstyWark & the talented @BBCNewsnight team under new & ambitious leadership," she tweeted.

"It’s one of the best jobs in British journalism & I can’t wait to champion more stories about people’s lives while holding those who represent them to account."

She added: "My DMs are always open… if I can help you tell your story, please do get in touch.

"Wherever you are in the UK, whatever you do, whatever your life is like, wherever you work (including government/Whitehall), I do hope you know you can trust me."

Derbyshire will take up her new post in September but will also be presenting on the show tonight (Friday 8 July).

A tweet from the show's account said: "#Newsnight is thrilled that the brilliant @vicderbyshire will be joining us as joint lead presenter alongside @KirstyWark.

"Victoria joins the presenting team permanently in September (but is presenting tonight too at the end of a busy week in news!)."

Derbyshire's hiring comes after Emily Maitlis and Emma Barnett left the show earlier this year.

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The journalist has been on several news programmes over the years and also had her own current affairs show.

It aired from 2015 to 2020, when it was axed.

Watch: Victoria Derbyshire flounders on live TV for more than a minute in on air gaffe